[FraankGlen]

The ordinary Malayali has started moving into Flat in Tripunithura and other parts of Kerala, which have become comparatively more affordable, perhaps. Though the culture of apartment living has only begun to take roots in cities, particularly places like Kochi, there are still many people who cannot think of living in a flat. Both lifestyles have their own advantages and disadvantages. There are those who have left their houses and shifted to flats because of the convenience they provide. But, there are also those who would not compromise on having an independent house of their own. The demand is huge in the Rs 10-15-lakh category but it is impossible for a quality builder to provide flats at this range because of high construction cost. Added to this, wages of masons, carpenters and unskilled workers have gone up by 50 per cent in three years. Daily wage of masons and carpenters today are around Rs 300 while that of a helper is around Rs 200, they pointed out, then comes the government regulations and new taxes on the industry. All these put together make it unaffordable for the middle and low-income groups. Reduction of floor area ratio in Kochi and new rules for registration for flats has resulted in higher prices. Taxes and registration costs put together work out to an addition of 20 per cent of the cost, he said. Tax rates at present are service tax 4.04 per cent, sales tax 2 per cent and one time village tax 1 per cent.

Before purchasing land or building check the title documents first. If the seller is the first owner check his purchase agreement and final receipt with the builders. If he has also purchased from someone else, check the previous deed, also check all registration documents. If the flat is in a cooperative society check the original Share Certificate. Finally put an advertisement in the public notices section of the local paper inviting objections if any within 14 days. If you check out Midday you will see many such public notices. You probably mean whether the building is legal or illegal. Send a Right to Info application to the concerned municipality ward office and obtain this information.